Finnish award recognizes work of WADA

The achievements of the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) were recognized by the Finnish Sports Gala on Monday when Director General David Howman was presented with an award at a ceremony in Helsinki.

In a press release for the event, the Finnish Sports Gala paid tribute to WADA for “its active work in promoting sports ethics and fair play through training and communication”.

The press release added that “WADA’s uncompromising and long-standing work guarantees equal possibilities for success for all athletes”.

Also recognized at the ceremony were the athletes that helped to promote the Finnish Antidoping Associations (FINADA) ‘Clean Win’ program, an anti-doping campaign that uses elements of WADA’s Say NO! To Doping awareness tool.

“I am delighted to accept this award on behalf of WADA and thank the Finnish Sports Gala for recognizing the work of WADA and for highlighting the importance of the fight against doping in sport,” said Mr. Howman.

“An important aspect of WADA’s role is to develop close relationships with anti-doping organizations worldwide and this we have already achieved with FINADA.”

Mr. Howman received the award from former NHL hockey star and former WADA Athlete Committee member Jari Kurri of Finland, along with Kari-Pekka Tiitinen and Pirjo Ruutu, FINADA Chairman and Secretary General respectively.